Sometimes, a truth-teller in an NFL locker room is pulled back down into the fold, by fines or peer pressure or what have you (Case in point: Jon Beason on Julius Peppers -- although I still think Beason's since-apologized-for comments helped light the recent fire under No.90).

Smith made a point that needed to be made, and it will force the Panthers' offense to be better. Jake Delhomme already said Smith practiced "at a different level" Wednesday -- I think ultimately what Smith said will turn out to be something of a positive.

"Smith practiced at a different level"? Maybe he's realizing that he owns part of the problem. I love Smitty, but other top receivers find a way to get open! Sure hoping they figure it out and he starts back with unique TD celebrations...like the good ole days.

I'm glad he stood by his statement, too. I wish he had better timing (his comments dampened an otherwise pretty satisfying victory), but I knew the moment I read his quote that Smith would step up to try an be more of a force on offense. He sulks in post game interviews, and even on the sidelines, but I've never seen Smith sulk when that ball is snapped. He's all business on the field, and I'm eager to see how he plays this Sunday.

So its OK to blame the white QB but dont jump on Smith since the NFL is now double teaming him so he not only never can get open with his shortness but wont play defense to stop interceptions either?

And its realy stupid as hell for some sports writers and others to say just to get Smith the ball? How in the hell you gonna just him the ball when he cant get open?

Everytime JD has thrown SS this yr he gets it intercepted because of his short size and doubleteam and of course he gets the blame because we know the white QB and white coach always get blamed right? Screw you idiots.

And another thing...Man, you guys are some pretty spoiled fans is all I can say. 6 weeks into the season, sitting at 2 - 3 the lack of belief that your team (of which you are supposed to be a fan) is just awful.

Perhaps a little history lesson from last season would help. Entering Week 6 of the 2008 season, Buffalo was 4-1 and led the AFC East. Denver was 4-1 and led the AFC West. Chicago was 3-2 and led the NFC North. Dallas and Washington were both 4-1, just a half-game back in the NFC East. None of those five teams made the playoffs, and we haven't even mentioned the Jets, who started 8-3 but didn't get to play in January. Last season at this point, four of the six eventual AFC playoff teams were either 2-2 (Miami, Baltimore, Indianapolis), or 2-3 (San Diego). In the NFC, two of the conference's eventual playoff teams were under water at 2-3 as Week 6 dawned (Philadelphia and Minnesota). Add those totals together and half of the league's 12-team playoff field last year was playing .500 or worse ball through the season's first five weeks. (Props to Don Banks for those stats).

So, get your head out of your arses and realize this season is not a waste yet. There is a lot of football left to be played and there is time to get this team back on track (like by continuing to get some wins and to build the ground game, which will lead to more Smitty touches).

Sit in the stands like I did for game 16 of the 1 - 15 season and talk about no hope, but recognize being a true fan for that. The same fools talking about "free tickets" (which you totally made up by the way) will be begging to get on board if this team picks up. But who needs you.

I had no doubt that Smitty would stick by what he said, and like the Peppers, Beason incident, if we get the same kind of results, then I for one will be anxiously awaiting the infamous catch and score!!!!!

Thanks Jennifer...I just think it's about time for a little perspective around this city. All these damn Jake & "million dollar game" haters drive me nuts, mainly because they don't understand the first thing about football. Thank God they aren't running the team (although by their comments I'm sure they think they could do better).

To solve the riddle Fox needs to make Steve Smith the new QB so he can get his hands on the ball every single play so these whiners will shut their pieholes and then he can throw himself passes if he can get downfield quick enough to make the receptions. Should be no prob.

Jesus Christ. Has anyone looked at Smitty lately? The dude seriously looks like he lost an inch or two plus a couple steps and he is weaker. His arms and legs are smaller. Hes not as pretty as he was either.

Maybe its the 2 defenders all over him like white on rice every play but could he be shrinking and getting slower? Is somebody spiking the water bucket?